Slovakia Cup a great experience for me

Rovers starlet Jack Vale played his part in Wales’ first ever Slovakia Cup adventure earlier this month.

Vale, who was a real shining light in Rovers Under-18s' FA Youth Cup journey this season, was part of the Welsh Under-19s side, who arrived in Slovakia and played four games in five days against the likes of the hosts, Azerbaijan, Hungary and Ukraine.

Wales ended up finishing sixth - after losing the 5th/6th place play-off - in the eight-team tournament, with the hosts being the eventual winners.

It was an up and down time for Wales, but Rovers man Vale was one of their scorers in the competition as he netted against Slovakia in the first game in Group A.

And Vale admitted that the cup clashes were great experiences.

“It was a real positive trip for me and one that I think was hugely beneficial to everyone who was involved.

“Going away with my country is always a massive honour and it was great to score a goal in the tournament as well.

“To be honest, I was expecting us to achieve better results, but I think it’ll be a real learning curve for us. Hopefully we’ll benefit from the experience and improve next time.”

*The image in this story shows Jack (bottom, middle) lining up with his team-mates before the opening game of the tournament.